Article by David Laime
Sunday November 11, 2018
The wind whipped the US colors flying at half-mast. The sharp sounds of snare drums and vibrant fifes carried a lively patriotic tune over the brisk cold November wind. The seating area was packed as the procession came marching around a bend in the road of Arrowhead Ridge Park. The California Army National Guard lead the way, followed by the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and the Mountain Fife and Drum Corp. It was a sight and sound to behold and a perfect lead up to local celebrity, Gloria Lorings, welcoming remarks. Chaplin Richard Sanchez, U.S. Army National Guard, delivered the opening prayer, followed by a retiring of the U.S. flag at half-mast. The Mountain Fife and Drum Corp played during the raising of the new colors, along with flags from all 5 branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, State of California flag and a POW/MIA awareness flag. Opening ceremonies concluded with the Pledge of Allegiance led by local Girl Scouts, Molly England and Kaitlyn Koelliker, G.S.A. Troop 1311, and Gloria Loring singing the National Anthem.
Patriotic sentiment over flowed as local Vietnam Vets were acknowledge and honored for their service with 50th Anniversary commemorative ball caps and lapel pins. Then, the capacity crowd enjoyed a reading of the local winning essay from the “Patriots Pen” competition. The Patriots Pen is a middle school writing contest sponsored by the VFW. This year’s theme was “Why I honor the American Flag”. In addition to the Patriots Pen, the VFW also sponsors a speech writing contest called “Voice of Democracy”, with the local winner delivering their 1st place oration. Dry eyes were tough to find during the presentation of “Quilts of Valor” to local vets, with a heart felt introduction by Ginger Gabriel. Gloria Loring then graced the crowd with a beautiful and solemn rendition of America the beautiful. Reverence and reflection gave way to boisterous voices as the crowd all joined in the singing of the Service Branch Theme Songs!
The biting winds and cold temps couldn’t keep spirits down as U.S. Army Chaplin, Joseph Aquino, delivered a powerful closing benediction, and Ms. Loring wrapped things up with her eloquent closing remarks.
This article brought to you by Nancy Wallace – Attorney.